Brand name:

Chlor-Trimeton Allergy

Pronounced: klor-TRI-muh-ton

Generic name: Chlorpheniramine maleate

Other brand name: Efidac 24 Chlorpheniramine

What this drug is used for

Chlor-Trimeton Allergy and Efidac 24 contain an antihistamine that temporarily relieves the sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose and throat, and itchy, watery eyes caused by allergies such as hay fever.

Chlor-Trimeton Allergy comes in 4, 8, and 12-hour tablets. The Efidac product is a 24-hour formulation.

How should you take this medication?

* CHLOR-TRIMETON ALLERGY

4-Hour Tablets

The usual dose for adults and children 12 years and over is 1 tablet every 4 to 6 hours. Do not take more than 6 tablets each 24 hours. For children 6 to 12, break a tablet in half and give half a tablet every 4 to 6 hours. Do not give more than 3 whole tablets in 24 hours. For children under 6, consult your doctor.

8-Hour Tablets

The usual dose for adults and children 12 years and over is 1 tablet every 8 to 12 hours. Allow at least 8 hours between doses, and do not take more than 3 tablets each 24 hours. For children under 12, consult your doctor.

12-Hour Tablets

The usual dose for adults and children 12 years and over is 1 tablet every 12 hours. Do not take more than 2 tablets each 24 hours. For children under 12, consult your doctor.

* EFIDAC 24

The usual dose for adults and children 12 years and over is 1 tablet with liquid every 24 hours. Swallow the tablet whole; do not divide, crush, chew, or dissolve it. Not for use in children under 12.

* STORAGE

Store at room temperature. Protect from too much moisture

Do not take this medication if...

Unless your doctor approves, avoid these products if you have high pressure within the eye (glaucoma), an enlarged prostate gland, or a breathing problem such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis.

If you have had a narrowing or blockage in the digestive system, check with your doctor before taking Efidac 24. If you develop persistent abdominal pain or vomiting, call you doctor immediately.

Special warnings about this medication

The antihistamine in this product can make you drowsy. Be especially careful when driving, and when operating machinery. It can also cause excitability, especially in children.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking this medication

If you are taking a tranquilizer such as Valium or Xanax, or a sleep aid such as Halcion or Seconal, do not take these products without your doctor's approval; the combination could cause extreme drowsiness. For the same reason, avoid alcohol while taking this product.